Lionel Messi ‘laser penned’ in Milan as Barcelona draw a blank

AC Milan fans resorted to eye-watering tactics to try to stop Lionel Messi in their Champions League quarter-final with Barcelona, by shinning lasers in his face at crucial junctures of the match.

Shinning star: Barcelona’s Messi (Picture: AP)

The world player of the year, who had raked up 18 goals in eight games before Wednesday night, was the subject of constant attention from the Rossoneriâs overworked defence throughout the 0-0 first-leg draw in Italy.

But as Messi stood over a free-kick on the edge of the box, and Milanâs players were forbidden from coming within 10-yards of the forward, the San Siro faithful played their part by shinning laserâs in the 24-year-oldâs eye.

That seemed to be enough to distract the Argentine, who slipped as he struck his first-half effort.

âIt was a tough match that we should have won,â Messi told Barcaâs official website. Â

âWe played our game but it was difficult because of the pitch, and because they [Milan] are very strong.

âItâs a dangerous situation. Either team could go through, we hope we can score in the return so it will be us. We deserved to win [the first leg].âThe second leg takes place at the Nou Camp on April 3.

Some content was stripped by our security filters, but is should be possible for one of your Editors to embed the content for you.